News

Actions

More people expected to be diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder amid COVID-19 pandemic

coronavirus.jpeg
Posted at 4:11 PM, Jul 13, 2020
and last updated 2020-07-13 22:33:50-04

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Psychologists say more people will probably be diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder due to the pandemic.

With the economy reopening, some people feel sad staying home, or guilty when they go out. “This is anxiety manifesting in a different way.”

In this time of uncertainty, Dr. Anna Settle said psychologists are worried more people will be diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder.

“I think we’re going to see a lot of PTSD coming from not seeing loved ones, but also parents trying to care for children, and people being unable to work, and all the trickle-down effects," said Dr. Settle.

A lot of people feel pandemic fatigue - anxious, or depressed during this time. The good news is, many mental health experts are available to help,

“For telehealth too, they are also utilizing virtual reality. Rather than it being just a face to face conversation, it could actually feel like you’re in the room," said Dr. Settle.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with COVID-19, there are some warning signs for PTSD.

“Thinking back to what it was like seeing that person... difficulty sleeping, nightmares," she said.

At the end of the day, Dr. Settle said we all have to try and find moments of peace during this time.

“If you’re following the recommendations, you’re engaging, you’re doing all the things that you’re being recommended to do, then you just have to let go of the fact that you can’t control the outcome,” Settle said.

An additional PTSD symptom includes feeling keyed up and being unable to settle down when talking about the pandemic or the traumatic event.